What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is a digestive disorder that occurs when the outpouchings (diverticula) of the large intestine become infected or inflamed. Diverticulitis can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can also lead to blockages, abscesses, and perforations of the intestine, and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Description and Causes
Diverticulitis is a digestive disorder that is caused by the formation of small, bulging sacs or outpouchings in the wall of the large intestine. These outpouchings, known as diverticula, can become inflamed or infected, which can lead to severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, diverticulitis can also cause blockages, abscesses, and perforations of the intestine, and can be life-threatening.
The exact cause of diverticulitis is not known, but it is thought to be due to a combination of factors, including poor diet, inadequate fiber intake, and a lack of physical activity. A diet low in fiber causes stools to become harder and more difficult to pass, which can increase the pressure on the walls of the intestine and cause the formation of diverticula.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diverticulitis is usually diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests (such as an abdominal X-ray or CT scan), and blood tests. Treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of the condition, but may include antibiotics, a liquid diet, and possibly surgery.
Related Questions
- What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?
- What is the difference between diverticulitis and diverticulosis?
- What causes diverticulitis?
- What are the risk factors for diverticulitis?
- What is the treatment for diverticulitis?
- What is the prognosis for someone with diverticulitis?
- Can diverticulitis be prevented?
- What are the complications of diverticulitis?
- What is the difference between acute and chronic diverticulitis?
- Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to reduce my risk of developing diverticulitis?